This article appeared in the Fall 2006 edition of Earth Ethics. It is excerpted from: Schut, M., ed. 2002. Food and Faith: Justice, Joy and Daily Bread. Published by Living the Good News in cooperation with Earth Ministry, an ecumenical, Christian, environmental, nonprofit organization.

Do you have a story to share of how an animal has influenced your faith? Submit your story and we may share it with our readers. The opinions of the authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of The Humane Society of the United States. By Brenda Robinson
Toronto, Ontario. Nov. 29, 2007
When I go out to start my day, if I am feeling down, discouraged and depressed, I am lifted out of this slump when I see a dog walking with its owner down the street.
The dog has its head held up, tail wagging, and is walking with enthusiasm and excitement about his day. When I see this, I think, snap out of it, look at that dog???that is how I should be approaching my day. Excited, with enthusiasm for my day ahead of me.
When they pass another dog on the street, they are excited to see them and to stop and greet them. Another lesson for me on how I should relate to others.

I am starting to believe that if we allow ourselves the silence and grace to listen more carefully beyond the distractions of everyday life; these small miracles will unfold continuously around us, as we become more attuned to the universal energies within which we are all intricately bound.

Do your views about animals influence your faith? Or has your faith influenced how you view animals and animal protection issues? Contributors to The Francis Files share their stories. Jessica Martin lives in Glen Allen, Virginia with her husband, two children and beloved dog Coal. Nov. 18, 2008

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